Applying for college is exciting—but let’s be honest, it can also be a little stressful. There are so many choices and questions to think through. Should I stay in-state or go out of state? Do I want to attend college with my friends, or go somewhere new that fits my goals better?
Choosing a college is a big deal because it sets the stage for your future—academically, professionally, and personally. It’s more than just getting accepted; it’s about finding the school that helps you get where you want to be.
Here’s one thing to keep in mind from the very beginning: college planning doesn’t stop at college. You’re not only planning for the next two or four years—you’re planning for the years after graduation too. Thinking a few steps ahead can make a huge difference in your career opportunities later.
Let’s talk about three things you’ll want to think about before hitting “submit” on those college applications.
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Start with the End in Mind
Before you choose a college, ask yourself: What do I want to do after I graduate?
For example, maybe you want to major in computer science and work as a software engineer for a tech company. If that’s the case, look into which schools have strong computer science programs. Do their graduates get jobs at good tech companies? What kinds of internships do students get while they’re in school?
A simple tip: find a company you’d love to work for and look at their website or LinkedIn to see where their employees went to college. You might be surprised how much that can tell you.
2. Think About the Job Market Around the College
Every college sits in a city or state that has its own job market. That means schools often design their programs to match the kinds of jobs that are in demand nearby.
For example, a college in Houston might have strong energy or healthcare programs, while a school in Atlanta might have great opportunities in business or technology.
Many local companies show up at campus career fairs or host internships—so if your major connects with the local job market, you’ll have a better shot at getting hands-on experience (and maybe even a job offer) before graduation.
3️. Will You Stay There After College—or Move Somewhere Else?
Here’s another question to ask yourself: Do I want to live and work in the same area after I graduate?
If the answer is yes, great! You’re already building connections in the right place.
If not, do some quick research on where you’d like to go next. Let’s say you attend a state university in Georgia but plan to move to New York after graduation. You’ll be competing with graduates from schools like Columbia and Cornell—so it helps to know what kinds of experiences and internships will make you stand out.
This isn’t about comparing yourself to others; it’s about being strategic. If you understand what employers in your dream city are looking for, you can spend your college years building those skills and experiences.
Let's bring it all together!
Choosing a college isn’t just about where you’ll spend the next two or four years—it’s about where those years can take you.
When you think about your career goals, the job market around your school, and where you want to live after graduation, you’re setting yourself up for success before you even get there.
Your college choice is the first step toward your future career—so make it an intentional one.